Common Facility Management Issues in Thermal-Energy-Storage Chiller Plant Using a Serious 3D Game

Serious 3D gaming serves as a transformative pedagogical tool for training facility managers in the complex maintenance of thermal-energy-storage chiller plants. By shifting away from traditional verbal instruction, this immersive approach provides a risk-free, simulated environment that allows personnel to practice intricate operational tasks. The primary objective of this methodology is to enhance decision-making capabilities and labor efficiency, ultimately fostering greater operational confidence among engineering students and industry professionals.

The research, which incorporates design input from 15 industry experts and performance data from 35 engineering students, confirms a strong positive correlation between expert-recommended maintenance protocols and user feedback within the simulation. Participants consistently reported higher levels of engagement and improved episodic memory retention compared to conventional training methods. By leveraging story-driven, task-based scenarios, the simulation effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, proving that gamified environments are a viable and superior alternative for high-stakes facility management training.

While the current findings validate the effectiveness of 3D serious games, the scope of the study remains focused on the integration of Building Information Modeling and advanced digital technologies within civil engineering education. Future research is expected to expand upon these results by incorporating virtual reality, motion-tracking hardware, and longitudinal analysis to measure long-term skill retention. As the industry moves toward more sustainable and technology-driven building practices, the adoption of these innovative pedagogical strategies is essential for preparing the next generation of engineers to manage complex infrastructure with increased precision and safety.